Poetry · Chapter
IV: When the Shy Star Goes Forth in Heaven explained
The narrator describes a shy star appearing in heaven and a lover singing at the beloved's gate in the evening, urging her not to muse in revery but to recognize him as her visitant through his song.
What happens
The narrator describes a shy star appearing in heaven and a lover singing at the beloved's gate in the evening, urging her not to muse in revery but to recognize him as her visitant through his song.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Longing
The lover's song and visit express deep longing and romantic devotion.
Nature and Mood
The shy star, drowsy even, and dew create a tender, melancholic evening atmosphere.
Characters to notice
Key passages
“When the shy star goes forth in heaven All maidenly, disconsolate, Hear you amid the drowsy even One who is singing by your gate.”
When the modest, sorrowful star appears in the sky, do you hear someone singing at your gate in the sleepy evening?
The narrator sets the scene of evening and introduces the lover's song.
“Know you by this, the lover’s chant, ’Tis I that am your visitant.”
Recognize by this lover's song that I am the one visiting you.
The narrator reveals his identity as the lover and visitor.